ACT treatment in a case of addictive behaviours with prefrontal symptoms

Abstract

We will present a case in which we use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to reduce or eliminate the usage of various addictive substances. First, we show some studies about the relationship between substance use disorders and frontal lobe disorders. Next, we explain the history of a patient along with a functional analysis of the patient’s problematic behavior and an evaluation of the neuropsychological behavioral repertoire that the patient demonstrates after several years of substance use. In addition, we define and briefly explain the fundamental elements of ACT used in the intervention. The results show the disappearance of substance use and an improvement in neuropsychological func-tioning three, six and nine months after finishing treatment. Last, we discuss the results and demonstrate the necessity of evaluating neuropsychological deficits in the context of therapy to better adapt the therapy to the abilities of the patient.